Warm weather is right around the corner. Plants are blooming, and the grass will soon need to be mowed. The warm sun tickling your skin can only mean one thing – spring is here! It is time to get outside. You and your family will “spring” into fun with these ideas!

Pick flowers. While you probably do not want your prize tulips plucked, look for daffodils! They are much more plentiful. If you want to jazz up your daffodils and throw in some science, try this. And It’s a great time to remind your children (and yourself) that you do not pick flowers out of other people’s gardens without asking first.

Plant a garden. You do not have to till up a 5 acre spot… a nice row in the backyard or some pots on the porch will be just as fun. Let everyone pick what they would like to grow. Research the plant and learn how to properly grow it. Have each child be responsible for their own seeds, including planting, growing, watering, picking, and so on. If you choose to grow vegetables, plan a dinner around the harvest. Once the garden begins to grow and produce, your kids will be excited. After all, they helped do it. And digging in dirt is always fun!

Earn time for electronics. We get it. Some people just aren’t the “outdoors type.” Encourage your kids especially to reap the benefits of fresh air and sunshine with a little extra push. Let them earn electronics time by going outside. For example, a certain amount of outside play equals that amount of time earned for electronics. Or combine the two. Ask your kids to take pictures or videos of the signs of spring they find in the backyard or at the park.

Drag out the forgotten toys. As soon as the sun is out and the day is warm, take the bubbles on their maiden voyage for the season. The tub of outside toys has been sitting there all winter; now it is time to play.

Enjoy your time outside and your time together… it goes by fast. So make this spring your best yet!